1. Single-Trip (Special Hauling) Permit
This is the most common OS/OW permit.
- Used for one specific move
- Covers non-routine oversized or overweight loads
- Typically for construction equipment, machinery, prefabricated structures, etc.
- Requires a defined route and travel dates
- May require escorts/pilot cars depending on size
This is the standard “move it once” permit used for most oversize loads.
2. Divisible Load Overweight Permit
Used for heavy but divisible cargo (can be split into smaller loads).
Examples:
- sand, gravel, stone
- logs
- scrap metal
- fuel, milk, garbage
Key features:
- Allows weights above normal legal limits
- Applies to loads that could technically be broken up but are transported together
- Often issued under NYSDOT’s HOOCS system
This is specifically for freight that exceeds weight limits but is still “bulk material.”
3. Annual / Blanket Permits
For companies that move oversize/overweight loads frequently.
- Valid for months up to 1 year
- Allows repeated trips without applying each time
- Usually limited to certain:
- weights (often up to ~125% of legal limits)
- routes or commodity types
- Requires route approval in many cases
Designed for contractors, haulers, and heavy freight operators doing ongoing work.
4. Emergency Permits (Special Circumstances)
Issued when urgent transport is needed.
- Used for emergency or time-sensitive loads
- Often related to:
- disaster response
- utility restoration
- critical equipment movement
- Can be issued quickly and sometimes with relaxed requirements
5. NYC Oversize / Overdimensional Permits (Local)
If traveling within New York City specifically:
- Required when exceeding city size limits (e.g. over 8 ft wide or 13'6” high)
- Issued per trip (not blanket statewide permits)
- Must follow NYC DOT truck route rules
- Separate permits may be required for entry/exit trips
NYC uses its own “Daily Over Dimensional Permit” system.
6. Restricted / Specialized Permit Types (Route-Based OS/OW Permits)
These include NYSDOT “Type” permits (often called F1, F2, F4, etc.):
- Used for heavy-haul trucking with specific axle/load configurations
- Allow higher weight limits than standard legal trucking
- Often restricted to certain highways or regions
- May require:
- engineering review
- bridge analysis
- escort vehicles
7. Escort / Pilot-Car Conditional Permits
Not a separate permit type, but a classification requirement attached to permits:
Depending on size:
- wide loads → escort vehicle required
- very large loads → multiple escorts
- extremely large/heavy loads → police escort may be required